A Statement From the SD Legion
Dear San Diego Legion Family,
In light of recent developments, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment in Major League Rugby's journey. The announcement of the withdrawal of the New York and Toronto teams from the 2024 MLR season has undoubtedly created a moment of uncertainty and concern within our rugby community.
Amidst this uncertainty, we, the owners of San Diego Legion, wish to express our unwavering confidence and commitment to the future of MLR and the growth of professional rugby in the United States. The game of rugby is not just a sport; it is a game for everyone and a shared passion that brings us all together, transcending borders and boundaries.
Our Commitment to MLR:
San Diego Legion remains firmly dedicated to the success of Major League Rugby. While the landscape may shift, we believe in the resilience of our league - demonstrated by its recent expansion into new markets across the U.S. and the forging of innovative, new relationships with key league-wide partners - and we are confident that MLR will continue to develop into a driving force in the global rugby arena. Our commitment to MLR is steadfast, and we are actively working with the League to navigate these challenges and emerge stronger.
Growth of San Diego Legion:
As we reflect on our journey, we are incredibly proud of the strides San Diego Legion has made, both on and off the field. In the 2023 season, we achieved an average of 7,000 supporters at our home games - an achievement that speaks to the growing passion for rugby in our community. We also doubled our number of social media followers over the past 12 months, creating an even more extensive network of passionate supporters.
Imagine Rugby outreach into the community:
In the last three months alone, our Imagine Rugby program has made a significant impact. We have reached over 110 schools and had the privilege of being in front of 22,000 school kids in San Diego. These numbers speak not only to the growth of the sport but also to our commitment to fostering its development at the grassroots level. San Diego Legion continues to be a driving force in raising the standard both on and off the field. Our dedication to community engagement and youth development reflects our belief that rugby is more than a game; it's a vehicle for positive change.
In the face of current uncertainties, we want to assure you that our commitment to the growth of rugby in the United States remains steadfast. We believe in the resilience of the sport and its ability to unite communities. San Diego Legion will continue to play a leading role in shaping the future of rugby.
Thank you for your ongoing support. Together, we will navigate these challenges and emerge stronger as a rugby community.
Sincerely,
Ryan Patterson and Darren Gardner
San Diego Legion Owners
